‘Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ Impressive Rotten Tomatoes Score Indicates Big Success for MCU Phase 4
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is markedly one of the most successful movie franchises of all time, with a long and consistent track record of both critical and box office acclaim. So, it comes as no surprise that the MCU’s 25th release, Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is already cementing itself among the greats.
What is the Tomatometer?
Housed on the globally commended movie and television review site, Rotten Tomatoes, the Tomatometer score is based on the opinions of hundreds of film and television critics and has been established as a trusted measurement of critical recommendation for millions of fans across the globe.
The name is a nod to the traditional days of open theatres, whereby patrons expressed dissatisfaction with a live play by literally throwing whatever they had available to them – typically fruits and vegetables – onto the stage.
A ‘Certified Fresh’ status is a special distinction awarded to the best-reviewed movies, which meet the below requirements*:
A consistent Tomatometer score of 75% or higher.
At least five reviews from Top Critics
Films in wide release must have a minimum of 80 reviews. This also applies to films going from limited to wide release
Films in limited release must have a minimum of 40 reviews
How does Shang Chi stack up?
The MCU has a flawless track record on Rotten Tomatoes, scoring "Certified Fresh" labels across the board. Ahead of its global theatrical release, Shang Chi continues that trend, debuting to a 91% Fresh on the Tomatometer.
Here’s what the industry’s leading critics had to say:
“One of the best origin stories in the MCU.”
Rachel Labonte, ScreenRant
“Marvel breaks its own mold on multiple fronts… Shang-Chi is the most energized the MCU has been in years.”
Jeffrey Zhang, Strange Harbors
“[It] puts to bed any concern fans might have had about a drop off in Phase IV of the sprawling Marvel Cinematic Universe.”
Brandon Katz, Observer
“Getting to see myself reflected in a Marvel blockbuster flick, despite its flaws, makes me excited for what more we might see from Shang-Chi.”
Therese Lacson, The Beat
“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings doesn’t just boast the best action of the MCU, it manages to do it with two (two!) eye-popping action sequences that unspool before the film’s first act is over.”
Kate Erbland, IndieWire
“There are stunning wuxia-inspired sequences that are as gorgeous as they are impressive.”
Eric Eisenberg, Cinema Blend
Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is in cinemas from 2 September.
*Rotten Tomatoes, 2021